CBS has filed motions to dismiss President Donald Trump’s $20 billion lawsuit concerning the editing of a “60 Minutes” interview with Vice President Kamala Harris. The network argues that the lawsuit lacks jurisdiction and infringes upon First Amendment rights. This legal action coincides with Paramount Global’s pending $8 billion merger with Skydance Media, raising concerns about potential impacts on the deal.
The lawsuit, initiated by Trump in October 2024, alleges that CBS deceptively edited Harris’s response to a question about Gaza, presenting her more favorably and constituting election interference. CBS maintains that standard editing practices were applied due to time constraints and has offered Trump an interview opportunity, which he declined.
Paramount Global, CBS’s parent company, is currently seeking regulatory approval for its merger with Skydance Media. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), led by Trump-appointed Chairman Brendan Carr, is reviewing the merger and has reopened an investigation into CBS’s handling of the Harris interview. There is concern that the ongoing lawsuit could influence the FCC’s decision regarding the merger.
In response to the lawsuit, CBS filed two motions to dismiss, citing lack of personal and subject matter jurisdiction, improper venue, and protection under the First Amendment. Paramount attorneys stated, “This lawsuit is an affront to the First Amendment and is without basis in law or fact.”
Alternatively, CBS has requested a transfer of the case to the Southern District of New York. The network asserts that consumer fraud laws do not govern editorial decisions and that the lawsuit challenges fundamental press freedoms.
Amid these legal proceedings, internal discussions at CBS and Paramount have emerged regarding the potential settlement of the lawsuit. Incoming Paramount President Jeff Shell has reportedly urged CBS News executives to consider settling to facilitate the merger’s approval. However, CBS News leaders have expressed concerns that settling could set a troubling precedent for journalistic integrity.
The outcome of CBS’s motions to dismiss and the potential settlement discussions are being closely watched, given their implications for the Paramount-Skydance merger and broader media industry dynamics. The situation underscores the complex interplay between media operations, legal challenges, and regulatory approvals in the current political landscape.
